Why Do Cats Kick Themselves in The Face? (Answered)

Cats are as graceful as any animal, but that doesn’t mean they can always control their body. For instance, when they kick themselves in the face, it is usually a defense mechanism. In the wild, this action would help them kill their prey or ward off an attacker.

But this not only the reason why cats kick their feet towards themselves. Cats also do this when they are playing with a toy or another cat. Catching their own feet as they run can be quite funny to watch, and some people even find it cute.

Here in this blog post I’ll elaborately explain why cats do this, and will also give you some tips on how to keep your cat from doing it. Stay tuned!

5 Possible Reasons Why Do Cats Kick Themselves in The Face

Cats are mysterious creatures, and it can sometimes be difficult to understand their behavior. One of the behaviors that many cat owners find particularly puzzling is when their cats kick their feet in their face.

While there is no definitive answer as to why cats engage in this behavior, there are several possible explanations for this behavior that may help shed some light on this curious feline behavior.

1. It’s Their Defense Mechanism

It is well-known that cats are able to land on their feet after a fall, but it turns out that they can also kick themselves in the face if they need to defend themselves against an attacker.

This unique defensive move works by utilizing the cat’s incredible agility and balance. When faced with danger, a cat will instinctively whip its back legs up into the air and use them to strike any potential threat.

This allows the cat to keep its distance from its attacker and avoid getting injured, all while delivering a powerful blow with its sharp, retractable claws.

Experts believe that this self-defense technique evolved as part of nature’s way of keeping cats safe from predators. By being able to quickly engage in this type of attack, cats are better able to defend themselves and escape harm’s way when needed.

Today, cats continue to utilize this unusual defensive method as a way of protecting themselves from danger. Whether they are facing off with another animal or simply dealing with an unwanted human intruder, cats will often resort to kicking themselves in the face as a last-ditch attempt at staying safe.

So the next time you see your cat do this strange move, remember that it is actually just using one of its best natural defenses!

2. It’s a Form of Play

Cats are well-known for being playful creatures, and this often manifests itself in the form of playful games with other cats or with their human companions.

One such game that many cats enjoy playing is by kicking their feet towards themselves while they chase after toy mice, balls, feathers, or even just air itself. This allows them to use their lightning-fast reflexes and nimble physique to engage in a fun game that keeps them entertained.

Although this may seem like an odd behavior, experts believe that cats are simply engaging in playful activities as a way of expressing their natural curiosity and high energy levels.

In addition to being great fun for cats, these types of games also help them to keep physically fit and mentally alert. So the next time you see your cat doing this kooky move, just remember that it’s not trying to hurt itself – it’s actually just having a whole lot of fun!

3. They are Stressed or Frustrated

Cats are often known for their graceful and elegant movements, but when they become stressed or frustrated, their behavior can turn surprisingly aggressive.

One common way that cats express their stress or frustration is by kicking themselves in the face, often resulting in cuts and bruises on their delicate skin.

There are a number of different factors that may contribute to this behavior in cats. For example, some cats may be more prone to stress or frustration due to genetics or personality traits.

Other cats may experience increased levels of stress or frustration as a result of changes in their environment, such as moving to a new home, losing a companion animal, or getting separated from their owners.

Whatever the cause of this behavior may be, it is important to take steps to help your cat feel less stressed or frustrated in order to prevent further injuries.

4. They Have a Health Issue

Although it may seem like cats are simply playing or venting their frustrations when they kick themselves in the face, this behavior can actually be a sign of an underlying health issue.

For example, if your cat is experiencing pain, then this could certainly lead to them kicking themselves in self-defense. Other common health issues that may cause this behavior include arthritis, kidney disease, neurological problems, or even cancer.

If you notice your cat exhibiting this type of behavior, it is important to take them to the vet as soon as possible for an examination and diagnosis.

This will help you to determine if there are any underlying health issues that need to be addressed, and will allow you to determine the best course of treatment.

5. Allergies or Skin Irritation

Cats can be especially sensitive to certain types of allergens or irritants, which may lead them to engage in this type of self-destructive behavior.

For example, if your cat is allergic to fleas or another biting insect, they may scratch and bite at their skin out of discomfort. This can lead to them kicking themselves in the face as they scratch their itchy skin.

Other factors that may cause this type of behavior include exposure to harsh chemicals or irritants, a skin infection, or even an allergy to certain types of food.

If your cat is exhibiting this type of behavior, the best thing you can do is to take them to the vet for a proper diagnosis. Once you know what is causing your cat’s discomfort, you will be able to help prevent it from occurring in the future and provide your cat with the care that they need.

Should You Worry about Your Cat Kicking Itself in the Face?

Although it may seem strange or worrying to see your cat kicking itself in the face, it is important to remember that there are a number of different factors that can contribute to this behavior.

For example, if your cat does this as a way of expressing stress or frustration, then you should not worry about it too much as this is normal behavior for cats.

However, if your cat is exhibiting this type of behavior as a result of an underlying health issue or allergic reaction, then you should definitely seek professional help to address the problem.

Overall, it is important to be understanding and patient with your cats as you work to understand their behavior and help them feel better.

My Final Thoughts

In conclusion, there are many different reasons why cats kick themselves in the face. Whether it’s a form of play, an expression of stress or frustration, or a sign of an underlying health issue, this behavior can be puzzling for cat owners to understand.

However, by being aware of the different potential causes and seeking professional help when needed, you can play an important role in helping your cat live a healthy and happy life.